New Gun Control Law

Sacramento, CA, December 22,2012 – Beginning next year, it will be illegal to carry long guns in California cities and public places. The gun control measure was signed by Governor Jerry Brown and goes into effect on January 1^st. The legislation prohibits anyone from being able to open carry unloaded rifles and shotguns in cities and public places in the state. Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck and Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca supported the measure. They believe that officers responding to calls from citizens might have trouble distinguishing peaceful demonstrators from criminals armed with long guns. There are exceptions to the new law for anyone at a target range, and military employees in parades. The measure was opposed by The California Rifle & Pistol Association.